Turning Shared Values Into Impact

As the Harvard Class of 1986 comes together for our 40th Reunion, we’re reminded not only of the friendships and experiences we share, but of the enduring call to use what we’ve gained to make a difference: Depart to serve better thy country and thy kind.

But answering that call can feel more complicated today. While many of us want to help, it can be hard to tell where the need is greatest or whether our contributions will truly make a difference.

Introducing the Class of ‘86 Impact Fund

The Class of ’86 Impact Fund is a simple, collective way for us to come together to support a thoughtfully selected group of nonpartisan nonprofit organizations addressing urgent needs, expanding opportunity for young people, and strengthening communities in Cambridge, Boston, and beyond. Together, we can give knowing that our collective effort is reaching where it is needed most.

And the needs are real. Nonprofits are faced with rising demand, shrinking resources, and an increasing gap between what communities need and what organizations can sustain. These challenges have become widespread and pressing at the local, state, and national levels:

68% of Cambridge nonprofits report increased need while expenses have risen and revenues declined

59% of Massachusetts nonprofits expect their finances to decline in the coming year, while many are simultaneously facing rising demand for services.

81% of U.S. nonprofits report struggling to raise enough funding to cover their full costs, even as demand for services continues to rise

Public funding falls short of what communities require, so our collective support can help close critical gaps. By coming together as the Class of ‘86, we have the chance to turn our shared values into collective action—to show up for one another and the communities that need us now.

Through the Class of ’86 Impact Fund, we honor not only where we came from, but who we still strive to be. Once again, we are stepping forward, together, to serve.

How to Donate

Explore the list of nonprofits and choose how you’d like to give—either by supporting the full fund or selecting a specific organization that resonates with you. Enter your donation amount and complete your gift securely through the platform, then follow along as our class’s collective impact grows.

Cradles to Crayons provides over 1 million packages of essentials each year to children in need.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston serves 15,000+ young people across 22 communities in Boston and Chelsea each year.

Union of Concerned Scientists applies rigorous science to major challenges affecting all of us.